19 Trench Coat Outfit Ideas to Elevate Your Street Style
Source: @alisontoby
In the ever-evolving landscape of style, the trench coat stands out as an enduring symbol of elegance and the perfect staple for a chic capsule wardrobe.
With its classic design and practical appeal, the trench coat offers endless styling possibilities that cater to various tastes and occasions. In this article, we delve into the art of styling this iconic piece which is typically worn in the spring and fall.
What Is a Trench Coat?
A trench coat is a long, waterproof coat with a double-breasted front, wide lapels, and a belt at the waist. It typically features shoulder straps and buckles at the cuffs for a customizable fit. Designed for both form and function, the trench coat is celebrated for its elegant silhouette and protective qualities against rain and wind.
History of the Trench Coat
The trench coat's origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, during the First World War. It was developed as a functional piece of military wear for British and French soldiers, designed to endure the harsh conditions of trench warfare. The coat's waterproof material and practical features, such as D-rings and deep pockets, were intended for utility on the battlefield. Thomas Burberry and Aquascutum are both credited with pioneering the coat's design, with Burberry's gabardine fabric invention in 1879 playing a key role in its development.
Trench Coat Craftsmanship
Trench coats are traditionally made from heavy-duty waterproof materials to serve their original purpose of weather protection. The most common materials include:
Gabardine: Invented by Thomas Burberry, gabardine is a durable, tightly woven fabric made from wool or cotton, known for its water-resistant properties.
Cotton: A strong cotton fabric that's less expensive than gabardine but still offers durability and protection.
Leather: For a more luxurious and edgy approach, leather trench coats offer a stylish twist on the classic design.
Synthetic: Modern trench coats may also use synthetic materials like polyester for water resistance and affordability.
Trench Coat Maintenance
To ensure your trench coat remains in excellent condition, follow these care tips:
Follow Instructions: Always check the care label for specific instructions based on the material.
Spot Cleaning: Address spills and stains immediately with a damp cloth for easier maintenance.
Professional Cleaning: For most fabrics, a professional dry clean is recommended to maintain the coat's integrity and water resistance.
Store Correctly: Hang your trench coat on a sturdy hanger to maintain its shape. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Styling a Trench Coat
The versatility of the trench coat makes it a cherished piece in any wardrobe, adaptable to countless styles and occasions. Here's how to style it:
Classic: Pair a beige trench coat with a white button-down shirt, tailored trousers, and leather loafers for a timeless, sophisticated look.
Casual: For a more relaxed vibe, wear your trench coat over a simple t-shirt, distressed jeans, and sneakers. Accessorize with a casual tote bag and sunglasses.
Evening: Transform your trench coat for the evening by draping it over a little black dress paired with high heels and statement jewelry.
Business: Layer a trench coat over a smart blouse and pencil skirt or a sleek sheath dress for a polished, professional ensemble.
Edgy: Combine a leather trench coat with black skinny jeans, a graphic tee, and combat boots for an edgier look.
Luxe Trench Coat Brands
Here's a list of premium and luxury brands known for their high-quality trench coats. These brands combine exceptional craftsmanship, high-end materials, and timeless designs to create trench coats that are both stylish and durable.
Burberry: Burberry is the quintessential trench coat brand, credited with inventing the gabardine fabric used in their iconic coats. Their designs often feature distinctive checks and are considered a hallmark of luxury outerwear.
Khaite: Khaite blends modern femininity with classic styles to create trench coats that are both luxurious and effortlessly chic.
The Row: Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and minimalist aesthetic, The Row offers sophisticated trench coats that epitomize understated luxury.
Totême: Totême features Scandinavian minimalism in its trench coats, focusing on clean lines, functional design, and a refined color palette.
CO: CO specializes in elevated essentials, including trench coats that combine classic elegance with a modern, feminine twist.
Bottega Veneta: Bottega Veneta’s trench coats are synonymous with Italian luxury, showcasing innovative weaving techniques, premium materials, and distinctive designs.
Nili Lotan: Nili Lotan offers a New York chic perspective on the trench coat, with a focus on versatility, simplicity, and urban sophistication.
Max Mara: Max Mara's trench coats are the epitome of Italian elegance, known for their impeccable tailoring, luxurious fabrics, and timeless appeal.
COS: COS brings modern, functional design to the forefront with its trench coats, characterized by clean silhouettes, contemporary details, and sustainable materials.
Massimo Dutti: Massimo Dutti offers sophisticated, European-inspired trench coats that balance quality craftsmanship with contemporary styling.
Wardrobe NYC: Wardrobe NYC offers sleek, minimalist trench coats that are designed with a focus on luxury, urban utility, and refined, timeless silhouettes.
Trench Coat Outfit Ideas
Whether you're aiming for a look that's sophisticated, casual, or somewhere in between, our curated selection of outfit ideas will inspire you to elevate your fashion game and make the trench coat a cornerstone of your capsule wardrobe.
Get ready to discover how these trench coat outfit ideas can transform your closet and add a touch of timeless chic to your everyday ensembles. We’ve provided links to similar trench coats that we love and think you will too, and may receive a small commission if you indulge in a suggested product.
Trench Coat With White Jeans
Elevate casual wear with a classic trench coat paired with crisp white jeans, creating a fresh and sophisticated look. (Source: Pinterest)
Trench Coat Over a Button Down Shirt
A timeless ensemble that combines a sleek button-down shirt under a trench coat for professional and polished attire. (Source: @irinstylin)
Trench Coat Paired With Joggers
Merge comfort with style by wearing a trench coat over joggers for a sporty-chic, relaxed outfit. (Source: @alisontoby)
Sweater Wrapped Over a Trench Coat
Layer a cozy sweater over the shoulders of a trench coat for added warmth and a touch of preppy elegance. (Source: @irinstylin)
Trench Coat With Leather Booties
High-performance bakeware that provides Pair your trench coat with leather booties for a look that balances edginess with classic style. (Source: @ceciliemoosgard)
Trench Coat With Straight Legged Jeans
Combine a trench coat with straight-legged jeans for a casual yet refined outfit, perfect for everyday elegance. (Source: @ceciliemoosgard)
Trench Coat With a Crisp Blue Shirt
A crisp blue shirt under a trench coat offers a clean and sharp look, ideal for both business and casual settings. (Source: @amaliemoosgard)
Trench Coat Over an Elegant Suit
Layer a trench coat over a well-tailored suit for a sophisticated and timeless business or formal ensemble. (Source: @modedamour)
Trench Coat Over a Cashmere Sweater
A soft cashmere sweater paired with a trench coat creates a luxurious and cozy outfit suitable for cooler weather. (Source: @anoukyve)
Trench Coat With a Statement Bag
Accentuate your trench coat outfit with a bold statement bag for a touch of personality and flair. (Source: @creativeecho)
Trench Coat Over a Chic Blazer
Layering a trench coat over a chic blazer adds depth to your outfit, perfect for transitional seasons. (Source: @lovisabarkman)
Trench Coat With an Oversized Tote
A practical yet stylish look, pairing a trench coat with an oversized tote is perfect for those who need to carry a bit more throughout their day. (Source: @anoukyve)
Trench Coat With Wide Legged Jeans
Wide-legged jeans and a trench coat combine for a modern, fashion-forward silhouette that's both comfortable and chic. (Source: @lisonseb)
Trench Coat With Dark Rinse Jeans
Dark rinse jeans paired with a trench coat offer a sleek and polished look that's effortlessly stylish. (Source: @ceciliemoosgard)
Trench Coat Over a Polo Shirt
For a casual yet neat appearance, wear a trench coat over a polo shirt, blending sporty and sophisticated elements. (Source: @creativeecho)
Oversized Statement Trench Coat
Make a bold fashion statement with an oversized trench coat, perfect for adding drama and style to any outfit. (Source: @josefinehj)
Edgy Leather Trench Coat
An edgy leather trench coat adds a rebellious twist to the classic trench, perfect for those looking to stand out. (Source: @mathildegoehler)
Trench Coat With Black Trousers
Pairing a trench coat with black trousers creates a sleek, monochrome look that's both versatile and elegant. (Source: @josefinehj)
